Key idea: In the computing realm, we commonly perceive data as saved in the form of ones and zeros – also called binary code. Yet, in our everyday existence, we utilize ten digits to depict all feasible numbers. As an illustration, the number 9 is inscribed as 1001 in binary, demanding three supplementary digits to denote the identical value.
Original author and publication date: University of Innsbruck – April 20, 2023
Futurizonte Editor’s Note: There was a time, not so long ago, when quantum computing was almost unthinkable. Today, we have quantum developments almost every other day.
From the article:
The current quantum computers evolved from the binary framework, but the material systems that hold their quantum bits (qubits) can sometimes encode quantum digits (qudits), as exhibited by a group overseen by Martin Ringbauer from the Experimental Physics Department at the University of Innsbruck. As per ETH Zurich’s experimental physicist Pavel Hrmo: “The task for qudit-based quantum computers has been to generate entanglement proficiently amid the information carriers that have high dimensions.”
A recent article in the journal Nature Communications details how the group at the University of Innsbruck has accomplished complete entanglement between two qudits, with unparalleled proficiency.
This achievement could potentially lead to quantum computers that are more effective and potent than ever before.
Thinking like a quantum computer
The instance of the number 9 elucidates that humans can compute 9 x 9 = 81 in a solitary step, while a classical computer (or calculator) must execute numerous binary multiplication steps behind the scenes by taking 1001 x 1001 before it can exhibit 81 on the display. Although classical computing can manage this task, in the quantum world, computations are naturally vulnerable to noise and external interference. Hence, we must minimize the number of operations necessary to maximize the potential of available quantum computers.
Quantum entanglement is pivotal in any quantum computing calculation. It is one of the distinctive quantum attributes that form the basis for the potential of quantum computers to significantly surpass classical computers in certain operations. However, capitalizing on this potential necessitates the production of sturdy and precise entanglement in higher dimensions.
